Tommy the Tiger

Tommy left us on 7 Sept 2019 and went to the Cats Heaven. He’s part of our family and we are devastated by his sudden passing. He had been such an amazing companion over the past 7 years, he brought us so much joy and is the inspiration of many of my artworks. I still can’t believe that he’s gone… :( we are missing him every single moment…

Eulogy of Tommy the Tiger

(2012-2019)
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What can you say about this beloved member of our family
who just happens to be a cat?
That we loved him to bits.
That he was deeply affectionate and loyal to a fault.
That he was a bundle of manic energy who liked his leisurely naps.
That he loved tuna but also enjoyed nibbling wheatgrass and chives.

He was Tommy the Tiger,
so named because he was puny little kitten,
who turned up in our garden one fine day in September 2012.
He was hungry and looking for food.
And that was the start of a beautiful relationship.

“The pain now is part of the happiness then. That’s the deal.”
C.S. Lewis

As our living situation was uncertain back then,
we weren’t sure we could provide him with a forever home.
He dropped by for visits daily and soon became a permanent fixture.
We never knew what he saw in us.
Although he visited other homes, we were his favourite humans.

“It was Providence, because the Almighty saw we needed her.”
L.M. Montgomery

After he got himself hurt in a catfight, we housed him at night.
During the day, he was a free roaming majestic hunter.
He would present us with gifts that he caught:
birds, lizards and even a bat or two.
In the evening, he would bound past several fences
to greet us at the front entrance when we get home from work.
At night on occassions when animal intruders turn up,
he would take it on himself to protect us.
Such was his fierce devotion to his family.

And yes, we became his family.
He was every bit as loved and appreciated.

We would move several more times over the years
which required turning him into a house cat.
He adjusted to the transition well.
As long as he was with his family, he was calm and happy.

“Our departed loved ones live on in us.”
A. Krause

We are distraught and devastated by his sudden passing.
We will always treasure the memories of his gentle playfulness,
unquestioning trust, adorable cuteness, penchant for back and belly rubs,
his soft fur, his close physical contact, how huggable he was,
and the list goes on in so many ways that enriched our lives.

He was simply the most amazing little fellow.
He loved and was loved and
will always be loved.

Rest in peace, sweet angel.

“Would you know my name ….”
E. Clapton

Copyrighted Image (c) April Yip, Leafbear Studio